Truck accident cases can be very complex to handle. That is why it is important to consult with a Connecticut truck accident attorney following a collision. Accident victims should seek legal guidance from an attorney who is well-versed in commercial vehicle litigation. Often, truck insurance issues make it difficult for accident victims to receive fair compensation for their losses.
At Jonathan Perkins Injury Lawyers, our attorneys and staff have the knowledge to successfully handle truck accident cases. We have helped numerous clients receive maximum compensation for their claims. For additional information about filing for a Connecticut truck accident claim, fill out the free case evaluation form.
Common Truck Insurance Issues
After a truck collision has occurred, there may be several truck insurance issues that may arise. The issues listed below may negatively affect your commercial vehicle legal claim.
- Several insurance providers may be involved: In most car accident cases, there is usually only one insurance provider that represents the driver, but a truck driver may be represented by multiple insurance companies. Typically, the driver will have his own policy, and the tractor and trailer will have insurance coverage under other policies. When there are numerous insurance companies involved in the claim, it can be difficult for an accident victim to receive the compensation that they deserve.
- Trucking companies have their own investigators: It is not uncommon for trucking companies to go through great measures to avoid paying a substantial settlement to an injury victim. Trucking companies will often have their own investigators on staff. Their investigators will arrive at the accident scene quickly to assess the collision, interview any witnesses and collect evidence. It is the investigator’s job to limit the trucker and their company of liability. It is imperative for an accident victim to have their own attorney who will conduct a fair investigation and make sure the victim’s legal rights are protected.
- Key evidence may be lost: After a truck crash has taken place, there is a vast amount of evidence that needs to be collected, such as driver’s logs, field sobriety tests, skid marks, gas stains and road conditions. Collecting evidence is an extensive process, which is why accident victims should hire knowledgeable lawyers to handle their cases.
- Settlements are less than what is needed to cover your damages: It is a common practice for insurance companies representing trucking companies to offer unreasonable settlements to limit their own financial losses. An experienced lawyer can review the settlement and determine if the offer is fair.
Filing A Truck Accident Lawsuit Is Difficult
Truck accidents can leave accident victims with serious and life-altering injuries. Injury victims may require extensive medical treatment that requires them to miss work, causing a financial strain on them and their families. Injured individuals should concentrate on recuperating from their injuries while allowing experienced truck accident lawyers to handle their legal matters.
What To Know About Interstate Vs. Intrastate Truck Accident Liability
The type of commercial vehicle that hit you may affect your ability to recover damages. There is a different set of laws and regulations for interstate and intrastate commercial vehicles.
Interstate Trucks
When commercial trucks travel between states, this is referred to as interstate traffic. Listed below are some examples of interstate trucks:
- UPS trucks
- FedEx trucks
- Logging trucks
- Department store trucks
- Private charter vehicles, like Greyhound buses
Commercial vehicles that travel interstate are regulated by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and follow the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations.
Intrastate Trucks
Intrastate traffic refers to vehicles that work and transport cargo within one state. Some common intrastate vehicles include:
- Gas trucks
- Water trucks
- Dump trucks
- Transit buses
- Garbage trucks
- School buses
- Fire trucks
Vehicles that travel intrastate are not regulated by the DOT; however, they must follow the state’s laws. For example, if you are injured in a garbage truck accident, your ability to recover losses will be determined by Connecticut’s laws.
Like many other states, Connecticut has adopted most of the FMCSA regulations for intrastate trucking. However, following are some exceptions:
- Drivers of intrastate vehicles are required to be at least 18 years old; interstate truckers, on the other hand, must be 21.
- Intrastate commercial vehicles must follow the FMCSA’s regulations when the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or the gross combination weight rating (GCWR) is 18,001 pounds or greater.
Filing for a legal claim against an intrastate trucking company can be hard without the assistance of a lawyer. A truck accident lawyer who is well-versed in commercial litigation will know how to identify the negligent parties and file a claim against them.
Contact A Connecticut Truck Accident Lawyer
At Jonathan Perkins Injury Lawyers, our attorneys and staff are equipped to handle all types of truck accident cases. We offer free legal consultations to all accident victims in Connecticut. During your legal consultation, we will assess the merits of your claim and recommend the best course of action to pursue. In addition, we will determine truck accident liability and file a lawsuit against the appropriate parties.
We have offices in New Haven, Bridgeport, Hartford, Waterbury and New London and serve clients throughout Connecticut. Complete our free case evaluation form or call us toll-free at 800-PERKINS.